20 Jul 2009

Magic out of trans-Tasman netball competition

9:38 am on 20 July 2009

The Waikato Bay of Plenty Magic have failed to make the final of the trans-Tasman netball competition, losing 51-37 to the Adelaide Thunderbirds in Hamilton on Sunday night.

The Magic were competitive in the first quarter, trailing by only three points, however errors and lack of discipline helped in their defeat.

The Australian side led at the end of each quarter, and were ahead 24-18 at half time, after which they dominated the game - leading by at least 10 points during the second half.

Waikato-Bay of Plenty Magic co-captain Joline Henry has accused some in the Australian team of 'thuggery', and says it is disappointing umpires did not stop it.

Thunderbirds coach Jane Woodlands-Thompson dismissed the accusation, saying the comments were made in the heat of the moment after a loss. She says it was a physical game which reflected the different styles of netball played in each country.

Magic coach Noeline Tauraua says the team was on the back foot during the second half and it was difficult to get back into the game.

The Adelaide Thunderbirds will play the Melbourne Vixens in next weekend's final.